NORFOLK, Neb. – Northeast Community College visitors often remark on how clean the campus and buildings are.
It doesn’t happen by chance, with Northeast’s custodial staff second to none. And one of the best staff members is Chris Walker, who recently was awarded the US Bank Classified Staff Employee of the Year during the Spring Semester In-Service.
The US Bank Great Performer Awards honor Northeast employees each year who have been nominated by their peers for their outstanding contributions to the college. The awards have been presented by the bank, or its predecessor institutions, since 1993.
Walker received several nominations, ranging from students to faculty members, for his work in the Agriculture Allied Health Building, along with fellow custodian Terry Jones.
One student wrote the following: “Chris goes above and beyond to make sure our space is tidy so that we can be successful throughout our day. He has exceeded everyone’s expectations and is always striving to go above and beyond. We have never seen anything not be spotless.”
Leah Barrett, Northeast president, noted that many students shared how Walker is attentive to student needs, along with maintaining a clean and organized space.
“He has a kind-hearted nature and an ability to lighten the mood when things get stressful,” Barrett said. “He always makes people laugh, offering a bit of humor when the pressure is on. His approachable personality and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed have made him a beloved figure among all.”
Students and faculty said Walker ensures that everyone in the building feels supported and cared for. Northeast is fortunate to have him as part of the team.
“Chris is more than just a team player — he is the embodiment of dedication, mindfulness, and selflessness. His ability to collaborate effectively with others and communicate clearly ensures that the needs of our building are met without interruption. He takes full ownership of his work and always holds himself to the highest standards. His proactive approach to identifying and addressing potential issues before they become problems is invaluable.”
Along with the honor, US Bank Award recipients receive $250. Walker has other family members who also work at Northeast. His father, Roger Walker, is a building construction instructor, and his sister, Mindy Heine, is a financial aid coordinator.
In addition to the US Bank Awards being presented at the in-service, milestones were noted for employees for their commitment to the college.
Employees recognized were:
5 Years
Kimberly Andersen, Leah Barrett, Joshua Becker, Brian Headlee, Bonnie Henkel, Katherine Lammers, Melany Smith.
10 Years
Dawn Doherty, Scott Abels, Chad Miller, Rosa Arreguin, Tina Teply, Rebecca Miller, Thomas Hoile, Shawn Tillotson, Thomas Sullivan, Kevin McLouth, Michelle Kuehner, Shelby Bonner, Matthew Nelson, Lisa Guenther, Melissa Kebaili.
15 Years
Maria Gonzalez, Glen Lammers, Edward Lewis, Sonia Haberer, Margaret Schultz, David Beaudette, Adam Peterson, Heidi Merritt, Phillip Schimonitz, Elizabeth Gubbels, Carla Andersen, Brian Porter, Anthony Chambers, Pattie Schuckman.
20 Years
Wayne Sager, Sharon Hrabanek.
25 Years
Melissa Lemke-Elznic, Michael Zierke, Timothy Fenton, Carol Wiedeman, Coleen Bressler.
30 Years
Teresa Siedschlag, Donna Andrew, Dale Johanson, Susan Cooper.
35 Years
Connie Sixta, Larry Oetken.
40 Years
Christine McKibbon.
50 Years
Steve Schram.
US Bank, Walker cutline
Chris Walker, Northeast custodian, was named the US Bank Classified Staff Employee of the Year and is congratulated by Tiffany Wietfeld, Norfolk Main Branch manager. (Northeast Community College)
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